You will agree that as a Nigerian student, one of your priorities is to relocate from Nigeria through the study route. This can be possible through the EU scholarship for Nigerian students in 2024. First, let’s start by saying that the European Union (EU) is a coalition of 27 countries collaborating politically and economically. Through this relationship, they are now offering scholarships to students in Nigeria. So, prepare to grab this opportunity as a Nigerian student to further your education and gain valuable experience in Europe.
By the way, EU supports various educational programs and initiatives, including scholarships for students from developing countries. Don’t think that Europe may be too much for you. No, you can conquer education in Europe as long as you are eligible and qualify for the specific scholarship program.
EU Scholarship for Nigerian Students
There are many different scholarships in the EU. Once you can identify one that you qualify for, you can go ahead and apply. Below is the available EU scholarship for Nigerian students.
1. Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France) 2024
This program was initiated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Eiffel Excellence scholarship program aims to enable French higher education institutions to attract top international students for their master’s and Doctorate programs.
Eiffel scholarship awardees receive a monthly allowance and are reimbursed for their travel costs, health insurance, and certain extracurricular activities. However, tuition fees are not included in this scholarship.
2. Lund University Global Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students (Sweden)
The Lund University Global Scholarship Program targets top academic students from countries outside the European Union/European Economic Area (including Switzerland) who wish to pursue Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree studies at Lund University. Scholarships may cover 25%, 50%, 75%, or even 100% of tuition fees.
3. British Chevening Scholarship (UK)
This scholarship is part of the UK government’s international scholarship program, aimed at outstanding Nigerian academics. It usually funds one-year master’s degree programs.
Most Chevening Scholarships cover tuition fees, a living allowance at a set rate (for one individual), a round-trip economy-class air ticket to the UK, and additional grants for essential expenditures.
4. VLIR UOS Scholarship Award (Belgium)
Targeted at students from 54 developing countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, VLIR-UOS offers scholarships to attend Belgian universities for English-taught training or master’s programs focused on development. This EU scholarship for Nigerian students covers tuition, accommodation, stipends, travel costs, and other expenses related to the program.
5. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Germany is a top study destination for international students and Nigerians. So, yes, this is the best EU scholarship for Nigerian students out there. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides scholarships for various postgraduate courses at German universities, particularly those relevant to developing countries.
These scholarships are primarily aimed at international students and young professionals from developing regions in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, Central and South America, and Central and Eastern Europe. DAAD scholarships can be either full or partial, depending on the program selected.
6. Holland Scholarships (Netherlands)
The Holland Scholarship is available for international students from countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who are looking to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at participating Dutch universities. This scholarship, valued at €5,000, is awarded during the first year of study.
7. Swedish Institute Study Scholarship (Sweden)
If you don’t mind studying in Sweden, which is one of the easiest countries to get a student visa from Nigeria, you can study on a scholarship through the Swedish Institute Study. This scholarship is for high-achieving international students from developing countries who want to study at Swedish universities. It mainly targets master’s level studies and covers tuition, living expenses, part of the travel costs, and insurance.
8. Rhodes Scholarships at the University of Oxford (UK)
The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902 by Cecil Rhodes, is one of the oldest and most renowned international scholarship programs. It offers postgraduate awards to exceptional students from specific countries to study at the University of Oxford. The scholarship covers all educational expenses, a stipend for personal expenses, health insurance, and round-trip airfare.
9. Italian Government Bursaries for Foreign Students (Italy)
We also have an EU scholarship for Nigerian students in Italy by the Italian Government Bursaries for Foreign Students. These scholarships are available to foreign nationals and Italian residents living abroad to study in Italy.
They apply to undergraduate programs, advanced vocational training, music and art courses, master’s degrees, and doctoral programs. The scholarships are offered for durations of 3, 6, or 9 months.
10. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Students (Switzerland)
Swiss Government Excellence scholarships are offered to graduates from over 180 countries, including Nigeria. These scholarships allow for doctoral or postdoctoral research in any academic field at publicly funded universities or recognized institutions in Switzerland. They cover housing, health insurance, tuition, and other related expenses.
11. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (UK)
Another EU scholarship for Nigerian students is the Gates Cambridge scholarship. It is a scholarship opportunity for outstanding students from outside the UK if they want to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge.
It covers the University Composition Fee, College fees, a maintenance allowance, one round-trip economy air ticket at the beginning and end of the course, and incoming Immigration Health Surcharge.
12. Danish Government Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students (Denmark)
The Danish Ministry of Education annually awards scholarships to highly talented and motivated non-EU/EEA students wishing to engage in full-time higher education programs at Danish Universities. These scholarships can be full or partial tuition fee waivers and may include grants for living expenses.
13. Erik Bleumink Scholarships at University of Groningen (Netherlands)
You can also apply for an EU scholarship for Nigerian students at the University of Groningen. The Erik Bleumink Fund offers scholarships for one or two-year Master’s degree programs at the University of Groningen. These grants cover tuition and additional expenses like books, health insurance, and international travel.
14. Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (Netherlands)
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship Program (LExS) is for outstanding non-EU/EEA students enrolled in a master’s degree program at Leiden University. Scholarships may cover approximately €10,000 or €15,000 of tuition or the full tuition minus the statutory fee.
15. Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships (Netherlands)
The University of Amsterdam offers the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships (AES) to highly talented students from outside the EU who are pursuing qualifying Master’s Programs. The AES is a full scholarship of €25,000, covering education and living expenses.
16. University of Twente Scholarships (Netherlands)
University Twente Scholarships (UTS) are available to excellent students from both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA countries enrolling in a graduate program (MSc) at the University of Twente. The scholarship value ranges between €6,000 and €25,000 for one year.
17. Utrecht University Excellence Scholarships (Netherlands)
If you are going to study in the Netherlands, then we have the Utrecht Excellence Scholarship, which provides some outstanding prospective students with the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at Utrecht University. This scholarship may cover either tuition fees or tuition plus €11,000 for living expenses
18. The Horizon Program
This program provides financial support for research projects addressing major global challenges such as climate change, energy, and health. Nigerian students with a strong academic background interested in researching these areas are eligible for this program.
19. University of Lausanne Master’s Grant for Foreign Students (Switzerland)
Through the UNIL Master’s Scholarships, the University of Lausanne in Switzerland offers scholarships to international students who aspire to pursue a master’s degree there. The grant provides CHF 1,600 per month from 15 September to 15 July, for a duration not exceeding the minimum regulatory period of the program.
20. Bologna University Study Grants for International Students (Italy)
The University of Bologna awards study grants to meritorious international students planning to enroll in First Cycle (Bachelor’s), Second Cycle (Master’s), or Single Cycle Degree Programs. Each grant is valued at €11,059 and is awarded for one academic year.
21. EU-Africa Mobility Program
EU-Africa offers scholarships for students aiming to pursue a master’s or Doctorate in Europe, this program provides substantial stipends for the student’s studies. These scholarships also cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
22. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Program
Through the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, we have research scholarships for Nigerian students who want to study for a Doctorate in Europe. This program provides significant stipends to support research and covers tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
It is open to students with a bachelor’s degree and an excellent academic record, interested in Doctorate studies in various fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
23. EU-African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) Scholarships Program
This program provides financial assistance to students from the Caribbean, Africa, and the Pacific who wish to study in Europe. The scholarships offer a significant stipend to support the student’s studies and cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
EU Scholarship Requirements for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students need to fulfill certain criteria to be eligible for a scholarship from the EU.
1. Academic Merit
A strong academic record is essential for the EU scholarship. Applicants must be enrolled in a college program and maintain good academic performance. This typically means having a high GPA, excelling in your program, and completing a certain number of credit hours.
2. Language Proficiency
Proficiency in the language of the host country is crucial, as most EU countries speak languages other than English. Applicants need to pass a language test, such as TOEFL or IELTS, or provide evidence of studying or using the language.
3. Commitment to the Chosen Field of Study
Students must demonstrate a keen interest and dedication to their selected field of study.
4. Nigerian Citizenship
Only citizens of Nigeria are eligible to apply for the European Union scholarship.
5. Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the specific requirements set by the scholarship program they are applying for. This could include being in certain study fields or possessing specific experience or skills. It’s important to check and fulfill all the criteria before applying for the EU scholarship.
EU Scholarships Application Process
Generally, European Union scholarships are competitive, and it’s important to follow all instructions and meet the eligibility criteria carefully. Here are the steps involved in applying for an EU scholarship:
Identify Suitable Scholarship
The first step is to research and identify the various EU scholarships. The EU offers scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies, PhD programs, and research opportunities across different fields. You can find a comprehensive list of all available scholarships, along with details on eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the application process, on the EU website.
Verify Eligibility Requirements
After identifying a scholarship that interests you, the next step is to review its eligibility requirements. The qualifying criteria for each scholarship program can vary. Generally, you need to be a citizen of a non-EU country, have a strong academic record, and meet the language requirements of the program. Make sure that you meet the specific requirements for the scholarship program you intend to apply for.
Prepare Required Documents
The next step in applying for an EU scholarship is to prepare all the necessary documents. This includes a cover letter, resume, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency.
Make sure to follow the specific guidelines for each document to ensure everything is correctly formatted and includes all required information.
Submit the Application
Once you have all the required documents, you’re ready to submit your application. The application for EU scholarships is typically completed online, so you should submit your application through the EU scholarship website. Remember, it’s crucial to submit your application before the deadline to be considered for the scholarship.
Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, the next step is to wait for a response. The selection process for the EU scholarship for Nigerian students can take several weeks or even months. It’s important to be patient during this time. Keeping your contact information up to date ensures you’ll be notified promptly if you are selected for the scholarship.
Attend an Interview (If Indicated)
Sometimes, an interview is part of the selection process for EU scholarships. If you’re required to attend an interview, the EU scholarship program will inform you. This interview is an opportunity for the scholarship committee to get to know you better and assess your suitability for the scholarship. It’s usually conducted over the phone or via Skype.
Receive Award Notification
Receiving the award notification is the final step in the EU scholarship application process. If you are selected for the scholarship, you will receive an offer letter from the EU scholarship program, which outlines the terms and conditions of the scholarship. Upon accepting the scholarship, you will need to begin preparations for your studies or research in Europe.
Benefits of Studying in Europe for Nigerian Students
Studying in Europe can be a life-changing experience for Nigerian students. Here are some of the key benefits:
- You have the opportunity to broaden their perspectives, build global relationships, and enhance their expertise in their field of study.
- Europe is home to some of the world’s best universities, known for their academic excellence.
- EU universities have outstanding resources and facilities, along with highly qualified and knowledgeable faculty.
- European cities, known for their vibrant cultural scenes, offer a variety of cultural events and activities, especially for students interested in careers in arts, entertainment, or media.
- Europe, with many countries having strong economies, presents a wide range of career possibilities.
- Europe is generally an attractive destination for international students looking to further their careers.
Read also: Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students
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